Each year in New Jersey, DWI arrests increase dramatically during the holiday season. The holidays see an increase in both traffic travel on the roads, and the number of holiday celebrations, festivities and events throughout New Jersey. As a result, law enforcement in NJ has made a strong commitment to increase DWI patrols and crackdown on impaired driving. NJ police agencies participate in the 
“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” statewide crackdown with high profile enforcement with additional man-hours and fixed DWI checkpoints. If you or a family member is charged with a DWI at any time or during the holidays, you should consult with an experienced, skillful and aggressive NJ DWI attorney.
It’s Not WHAT You Drink, But HOW Much You drink…
A drink may not be what you think. One “drink” depends on what you choose to drink. A standard drink can be 12-ounces of beer (approximately 5% alcohol); 5-ounces of wine (approximately 12% alcohol); or 1.5-ounces of hard liquor (40% alcohol). You must pay attention to what you drink, as many wine and beer manufacturers have increased the alcohol content in their beverages. You also need to closely watch how much hard liquor is poured for you, especially in mixed drinks. Most people underestimate how much they drink because they don’t realize how much alcohol in their drink. Around the holidays, many beverages are festive and mixed so they do not taste as strong, but can be very potent.
Tis the Season to Be Safe
The best way to be safe this holiday season is to not drink and drive. In NJ, the legal limit for driving is 0.08% blood alcohol content (BAC). BAC measures the amount of alcohol in your body. However, a driver can still be guilty of DWI in New Jersey with a BAC below 0.08% if the alcohol negatively impacts your ability to operate a motor vehicle. Even small quantities of alcohol can impair a driver’s judgment, senses and reaction time. If you plan on having some holiday “cheers” this season, there are many safe alternatives:
- Use a sober, designated driver;
- Ordering a rideshare such as Über or Lyft – both frequently offer holiday promotions);
- Call a taxi (top-rated taxis in Mountainside, NJ according to Yelp.com)
- Utilizing public transportation; and
- Staying with the host or another friend and driving home tomorrow.
Professional Representation
If you or a family member is charged with a DWI during the holidays, or any other time, you should contact an experienced NJ DWI lawyer immediately. I handle NJ DWI cases on a regular basis. Please contact me now by email, by phoning 908.264.7701, or by completing the form to the right to schedule your complimentary 30-minute strategy session.
